Big News for Disney Fans: Disneyland is Coming to Abu Dhabi! Here’s what we know so far about the world’s seventh official Disney resort.
If your family loves Disney as much as we do, get ready to add a brand-new destination to your bucket list—Disneyland is coming to the Middle East! That’s right, the magic of Disney is heading to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, making it the seventh official Disney resort in the world and the very first in the region.
Why This is Such a Big Deal
This is Disney’s first new theme park in over 15 years, following the opening of Disneyland Shanghai back in 2016. And this isn’t just another theme park—Disney is promising its most advanced and interactive resort yet.
The park is being developed in partnership with Miral, the Abu Dhabi-based entertainment company behind many of the amazing attractions already on Yas Island. Disney’s own team of “Imagineers” will lead the creative design and help bring all the magic to life.
A Dreamy Location for a Disney Adventure
Yas Island is already known as a family entertainment hub. It’s home to:
- Ferrari World – with the world’s fastest rollercoaster.
- Warner Bros World – complete with the world’s first Warner Bros-themed hotel.
- Yas Waterworld, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, and CLYMB – with the region’s tallest climbing wall and the world’s tallest indoor skydiving chamber.
- Beautiful white sand beaches, Abu Dhabi’s largest mall, and year-round family fun.
Now, Disneyland Abu Dhabi is set to join the lineup, bringing even more excitement to an already incredible destination. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 15 minutes from Zayed International Airport, it’s easy to reach whether you’re staying in the UAE or flying in for a magical holiday.
What Can Families Expect at Disneyland Abu Dhabi?
While full details are still under wraps, Disney has revealed a few exciting hints:
- A waterfront location with a stunning crystal tower at the heart of the park, instead of the traditional Disney castle.
- A Moana-inspired sailboat, possibly pointing to a water-themed attraction.
- Whispers of a Pride Rock log flume ride, Zootopia Land, a Tron ride, and attractions based on Avatar, Marvel, Frozen, and Star Wars.
And of course, you can expect themed hotels, immersive dining, and all the magical touches Disney is known for—just with a unique Emirati twist. As Disney CEO Robert Iger put it, the park will be “authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati.”
When Will It Open?
We’re still waiting for an official opening date, but Disney has already made moves in the region, including opening official Disney Stores in Dubai and Abu Dhabi earlier this year. Watch this space!